A West Country teacher training institute, has earned the highest possible grade of ‘Outstanding’ from Ofsted.

The Cabot Learning Federation SCITT (School Centred Initial Teacher Training), established in 2015, trains teachers for schools in North Somerset, launching over 500 teaching careers in areas extending from South Gloucestershire to Somerset.

This milestone marks the institute as the sole school-based teacher training provider in the region to acquire an 'outstanding' grade from Ofsted.

The grade arrived after a four-day inspection where Ofsted's representative met with leaders, trainers and spoke to board members, trainees and new teachers.

The evaluation saw Ofsted inspectors visiting 12 partner schools.

Lead inspector Lydia Pride confirmed in her report, "teachers who learn their craft at the CLF SCITT benefit from ‘exceptional quality of training’."

She expressed how the curriculum focuses on the significance of equity and inclusion.

Additionally, it said that the teachers value the enduring support they receive in their early teaching years.

The report reveals that the trainees view the provider as ‘a family,’ with many securing employment in partner schools and often later serving as mentors.

It also said that trainees treasure the ongoing support and consideration for their well-being and workload.

Adding that they believe this enables them to thrive in their roles and future careers.

It also found that the curriculum promotes diversity while emphasizing equity and inclusion.

The institute alongside partners, Olympus Academy Trust, the Leaf Trust, and The Priory Learning Trust, was praised for its work.

Alison Fletcher, CLF institute director, expressed joy in the results, stating: "This is a great outcome for our SCITT partnership, trainees, and alumni."

She also said: "It is validation of our commitment over time to develop an inclusive initial teacher training provision, grounded in our knowledge of current challenges in schools and the sector, that prepares new teachers exceptionally well to work in schools in our region and be successful and effective for their pupils, especially those who experience disadvantage."

Michelle Moxham, SCITT Director said: "They are inducted into professional networks and receive ongoing support through their early career years."

Former trainee Emma Watson, who now teaches at Herons’ Moor Academy in Weston-super-Mare said: "The HEART values are at the core of the CLF, and no matter which school or network you visit, you feel as though you are all aligned under the same values and purpose."